A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Graz vs. Pisa for Old Town, Attractions, Food, and Nightlife

Should you visit Graz or Pisa?

Which is cheaper to visit? Which is more expensive for vacation?

Should I visit Graz or Pisa? This is a common question asked by many travelers. By figuring out which city has activities that align with your interests along with knowing which is more affordable, you'll understand where you can get more bang for your buck. So, let's dive into the details and the data, which all comes from actual travelers.

Graz

Graz is a medieval, cultural, and historical city. It's a beautiful place to visit, too. Visitors also love the museums, nightlife, and food.

Pisa

Pisa is a world-famous, classic, and charming city. The beauty of this spot is also one of the main reasons why visitors come. Visitors also love the beaches, shopping, and museums.

Graz and Pisa: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Popular beach
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Impressive beauty
  • Home to the Leaning Tower of Pisa


Is there more to do in Graz or Pisa?

Visitors will generally find more to do in Pisa than Graz. While Graz is larger than Pisa, Pisa has more sights, attractions, and activities for tourists. Pisa is better known for its beaches and impressive beauty, while Graz is more popular for its historical sights. Graz is well known for its many cultural activities, its impressive old town, and its beautiful Baroque architecture. Pisa is well known for its iconic Leaning Tower, its beautiful squares, and its lively atmosphere. Also, Pisa is famous for The Leaning Tower of Pisa.

The Leaning Tower of Pisa
The Leaning Tower of Pisa

How is Graz different from Pisa?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

Let's take a look at the differences and similarities between Pisa and Graz. Then, you can decide for yourself which place is better for your next trip.

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Graz or Pisa?

Graz
Pisa

Visiting museums and landmarks is a fun activity in both Graz and Pisa.

Graz offers many unique museums, sights, and landmarks that will make for a memorable trip. The old town is among the largest in Europe and it's filled with sights and museums. The Schlossberg and the Clock Tower are among the most iconic sights but other highlights include the GrazMuseum, the Mohren Apotheke's Theriak Museum, a Gothic Franciscan Church, and the Robert Stolz Museum.

Many visitors head to Pisa specifically to visit some of its top-rated museums and other sights. The city is more than a one hit wonder. In addition to the famous Leaning Tower of Pisa, you'll find many beautiful buildings and museums. Popular places to visit include the Cathedral of Santa Maria Assunta, Campo Santo (Sacred Field), and Museo dell'Opera del Duomo.


Is the Food Better in Graz or Pisa? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Graz
Pisa

There are opportunities to sample the local cuisine at high quality restaurants in both Graz and Pisa.

Graz has a huge number of terrific restaurants. There's a huge focus on sustainable dining in town, so you'll find many restaurants that use a farm to table approach. Local ingredients are heavily valued and it's fun to sample the many local flavors. Backhendl is a classic fried chicken dish that you must try.

Dining out in Pisa is an experience not to be missed. The local cuisine is heavily influenced by the city's maritime roots. You'll find many seafood dishes as well as local classic recipes that have been passed down through the generations. A quintessential local dish is Bordatino alla Pisana, which is made with beans, cabbage, and cornflour. Also popular are Pasta e Ceci (chickpea pasta), Palette (a local polenta), and Trippa alla Pisana.

Is Graz or Pisa Better for Nightlife?

Graz
Pisa

The vibe at night is high quality in both Graz and Pisa.

Many people head to Graz for the nightlife scene. The large student population means that there's an active nightlife scene that is diverse and fun. There's a wide variety of bars and pubs with almost any music genre you could want. There are also dance clubs for those who are looking for a party.

Pisa has plenty to do after the sun goes down. Head out to an aperitivo bar for an early drink, then head to one of the area's best nightlife neighborhoods. For the biggest party scene, go about 10 kilometers out of town to the Versilian coast. This area has the most popular clubs. If you decide to stay in town, there are still plenty of places to catch live music and dance.

Is Graz or Pisa Better for Beaches?

Graz
Pisa

Pisa is a popular place for the beache. However, Graz is not a beach destination.

Pisa is a good option for a beach vacation. Many people forget that there are beaches near Pisa, but the city is close to the sea. Some of the closest beaches include Marina di Vecchiano and Marina di Pisa.

Graz is not a beach destination.


Is Graz or Pisa Better for its Old Town?

Graz
Pisa

Graz is terrific for its old town. Also, Pisa is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its historic old town charm.

Graz has a unique history which comes to life in its historic area. The medieval city center is very well preserved and one of the largest in Europe. The city has a lot of hidden charm and quaint streets to explore.

There is a nice variety of sights in the old town of Pisa. The old town is where you'll find the city's classic charm and many of the best sights.

Is the Shopping Better in Graz or Pisa?

Graz
Pisa

If you're looking to go shopping, Graz and Pisa both offer plenty of high quality spots.

Graz is well-known for its shopping. You'll find a lot of shopping around both Jakominiplatz and Hauptplatz Squares. There are also a number of shopping streets in town including Herrengasse which is filled with shops, restaurants, and more.

Browsing through shops is a popular activity in Pisa. There's a great mix of traditional markets, high end stores, and indoor shopping malls where you can find anything that you might need. Corso Italia is one of the most popular shopping areas, but also worth checking out are Centro Commerciale Pisanova, Borgo Stretto and Borgo Largo.

Is Graz or Pisa Better for Families?

Graz
Pisa

Graz is a great city for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Pisa is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its family-friendly activities.

Because of its large number of kid-friendly activities, Graz is very family-friendly. Kids will love the fairytale train and there's also a 4D cinema that is fun for the whole family. In Schlossberg Hill, families should check out The Slide, which is the largest underground slide in the world. Other highlights include a Children's Museum, a Folklife Museum, and a Natural History Museum.

Pisa is a family-friendly place to visit. It's a lively city with beautiful squares and the famous Leaning Tower of Pisa. Kids will enjoy hanging out in the city center, visiting Parco Don Bosco, Giardino Scotto Park, or Marina di Pisa. If you have a car and are willing to venture a bit further away, there's the Piccolo Mondo Amusement Park and Parco Preistorico Peccioli.


Is Graz or Pisa Better for Couples?

Graz
Pisa

Graz is a great city for its romantic activities. Also, Pisa is not as popular, but is still a nice city for couples.

Graz is a great city if you're traveling as a couple. It's filled with culture, history, and amazing food. Couples will appreciate the romantic old town and the many world class sights around town.

Pisa is a good city for couples to visit. It's an iconic Italian destination that offers so much more than its most famous landmark. The city is filled with charming squares, beautiful architecture, and plenty of fun activities that couples can enjoy.

Is Graz or Pisa Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Graz
Pisa

Pisa is great for backpackers and budget travelers. Also, Graz is not as popular, but is still a nice city for backpackers.

Many backpackers visit Pisa. Most backpackers pass through on their way to other towns, but for those that linger, there are plenty of hostels and a lively social scene.

Graz is popular with backpackers and budget travelers. There are hostels and budget-friendly hotels around town that make this a nice town to explore as a backpacker.

Is Graz or Pisa Better for Students?

Graz
Pisa

Pisa is renowned for its student-friendly activities. Also, Graz is not as popular, but is still a nice city for students.

Many students frequent Pisa. Many study abroad students flock to Italy for its beautiful culture, art, and architecture. Pisa makes a nice base for international students, and it offers easy access to other parts of Italy. It's also home to an internationally acclaimed university, Scuola Normale Superiore, which was founded in 1810.

Graz is very popular with students. It's long been an education center in Austria and students make up a significant portion of the population. It's also a chill city with a relaxed and student-friendly vibe.


Is Graz or Pisa Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Graz
Pisa

Graz is a great city for times when you don't have a car. Also, Pisa is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its public transit.

The public transit in Graz can get you around easily. There are buses and trams that travel around the town.

Pisa has a few public transit options. There are public buses through town with the most popular lines being the Red and Green Lines.

Is Graz or Pisa a more walkable city?

Graz
Pisa

Graz is terrific for its high level of walkability. Also, Pisa is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its ease of walking around.

Graz is a very easy city to get around on foot. You'll find everything you'd want to see in the old town, which is large, but still compact enough to explore on foot.

Pisa is a very walkable destination. The city is a great place to explore on foot.

For even more information, also check out Is Graz Worth Visiting? and Is Pisa Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Pisa or Graz?

How long in Graz or Pisa?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Graz and Pisa. In our opinion, Graz has more to see and do, so we recommend that you spend more time in Graz than Pisa. In general, 2-3 days is a good amount of time for Graz, and 1-3 days is enough time in Pisa.

Families should spend more time in Graz than Pisa. Because of the many family-friendly attractions and fun things to do for kids in Graz, it's a great place to visit with the whole family.

Couples should spend more time in Graz than Pisa. You'll find plenty of romantic sights and fun activities in Graz that are great for a weekend getaway or a longer couple's trip.

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Pisa than Graz if your budget allows for it. With a larger number of budget-friendly sights, good nightlife, and active things to do, anyone traveling on a budget would have a good time in Pisa.


  • How many days in Graz or Pisa? Ideal Length of Stay
    Graz 2-3 
    Pisa 1-3

One day in Graz or Pisa?

Visitors enjoy the food and shopping when visiting the destination of Graz. Visiting the old town is also a must. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. With so much to do, one day is probably not enough time to see everything.

Visitors enjoy the food and shopping when visiting the destination of Pisa. Visiting the old town is also a must. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. One day is usually enough time to experience most activities.


A weekend in Graz or Pisa?

Graz is a fun place to experience. If you have a weekend, this is a great place to go. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. A weekend is often enough time to do most activities. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

Pisa is a fun place to experience. If you have a weekend, this is a great place to go. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. A weekend is often enough time to do most activities. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

Five days in Graz or Pisa?

You'll find museums and nightlife around the historical destination of Graz. This city offers something for everyone. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. Five days is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

You'll find museums and nightlife around the charming destination of Pisa. This city offers something for everyone. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. Five days is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

A week in Graz or Pisa?

The historical city of Graz offers nightlife and food. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. One week is usually plenty of time to spend here with extra days to spare. With this much time, visitors often visit nearby destinations or take day trips.

The charming city of Pisa offers nightlife and food. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. One week is usually plenty of time to spend here with extra days to spare. With this much time, visitors often visit nearby destinations or take day trips.


For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Christmas Market Tours in Austria, The Best Bicycle Tours in Austria, The Best 2-Week Tours in Italy, and The Best Bicycle Tours in Italy.


Which place is cheaper, Pisa or Graz?

These are the overall average travel costs for the two destinations.

The average daily cost (per person) in Graz is €112, while the average daily cost in Pisa is €120. These costs include accommodation (assuming double occupancy, so the traveler is sharing the room), food, transportation, and entertainment. While every person is different, these costs are an average of past travelers in each destination. What follows is a categorical breakdown of travel costs for Graz and Pisa in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Graz 67
    Pisa 60
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Graz 134
    Pisa 120
Compare Hotels in Graz and Pisa

Looking for a hotel in Graz or Pisa? Prices vary by location, date, season, and the level of luxury. See below for options and compare which is best for your budget and travel style.

Hotels in Graz


Hotels in Pisa


Kayak helps you find the best prices for hotels, flights, and rental cars for destinations around the world. Compare prices for multiple destinations when planning your next trip.


Our Analysis
We've analyzed the average and typical hotel prices based on guest reviews, star ratings, and hotel amenities here: Graz Hotel Prices and Pisa Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Graz 18
    Pisa 11

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Graz

Also for Graz, here are a few examples of actual transportation services:

  • Transfer from Graz Airport to Koper: $207
  • Graz Private Transfer from Graz city centre to Graz Airport: $58
  • Graz Private Transfer from Graz Airport to City centre: $58

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Pisa

Also for Pisa, here are a few examples of actual transportation services:

  • From Florence: Round-trip Transfer to Pisa & Cinque Terre: $1,230
  • Florence: Private Transfer from Pisa Airport (PSA): $396
  • Private Transfer from Pisa Airport to Florence City centre: $291
  • Transfer from Pisa to Siena with stop in San Gimignano for lunch: $273
  • Private Transfer from Pisa (PSA) Airport to Fiesole: $264
  • Private Sightseeing Transfer from Pisa to Florence: $245
  • Private Transfer from Pisa (PSA) Airport to Firenze: $240
  • Private Transfer from Pisa (PSA) Airport to Volterra: $229
  • Private Transfer From Pisa To Florence, English Speaking Driver: $209
  • Departure Private Transfer from Pisa to La Spezia by car or van: $203
  • Private Transfer from Pisa Airport to Florence Hotels: $202
  • Private Transfer from Pisa (PSA) Airport to Lucca: $196

Is it cheaper to fly into Graz or Pisa?

Prices for flights to both Pisa and Graz change regularly based on dates and travel demand. We suggest you find the best prices for your next trip on Kayak, because you can compare the cost of flights across multiple airlines for your prefered dates.





Food
  • Food Meals for one day
    Graz 32
    Pisa 50

Typical Food Prices in Pisa

Here are some examples of typical meal expenses from previous travelers to Pisa:


  • Dinner
    75

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Pisa

For Pisa, here are some samples of tours and activities related to meals and dining experiences:

  • Chianni: wine and oil tasting with lunch or dinner: $39
  • Home-made Pasta Cooking Class: $75
  • Private Home-Made Pasta Cooking Class in Pisa.: $93
  • Dining experience at a local's home in Pontedera with cooking demo: $93
  • Pisa Food Tour: $95
  • Pisa Food Tour - Do Eat Better Experience: $101
  • Hands-On Cooking Class at a Local's Home: $155
  • Private Cooking Class at a Cesarina's Home in Pisa: $158
  • Authentic Italian Food Tour in Pisa: $521

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Graz 13
    Pisa 20

Tours and Activities in Graz

Also, here are some specific examples of entertainment, tickets, and activities for Graz.

  • 2.5-hour puzzle tour through Graz city center: $16
  • Graz - Private tour including Castle visit: $374
  • Graz Christmas Market Tour: $267
  • Graz Crime Experience: self-guided crime tour: $42
  • Graz Enchantment Walking Tour: $238
  • Graz Enchantment Walking Tour: $129
  • Graz Jewish Quarter and Old Town Private Tour: $214
  • Graz Museum: Private Guided Tour: $219
  • Graz Old Town Highlights Private Walking Tour: $195
  • Graz Private Family Friendly Walking Tour: $214
  • Graz Private Family Friendly Walking Tour: $210
  • Graz Private Walking Tour: $235

Tours and Activities in Pisa

Also, here are some specific examples of entertainment, tickets, and activities for Pisa.

  • Skip-the-Line Best of Pisa and Leaning Tower Guided Tour for Kids and Families: $273
  • 2-Day Tour: Pisa, Cinque Terre & Tuscany: $320
  • 2-Hour Small-Group Walking Tour of Pisa Off The Beaten Path: $27
  • Adventure in Pisa + Tower Admission: $182
  • Best of Pisa Guided Walking Tour with Leaning Tower Entry Ticket: $53
  • Best of Small group tour with admission tickets: $57
  • Bocelli Chianti Hills E-Bike Guided Tour + Wine Food Tasting: $157
  • Carrara Marble Quarries Tour by Land Rover: $82
  • Carrara Marble Quarry Tour with Food Tasting: $97
  • Carrara: Exclusive Marble Cave Tour Adventure in a 4x4: $82
  • Cinque Terre tour in Small Group from Pisa: $184
  • Discovering Pisa in Christmas Time – Walking Tour: $443

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Graz 16
    Pisa -

Sample the Local Flavors in Pisa

Also in Pisa, these are the prices for nightlife and alcohol related activities from various tour providers:

  • Cathedral Guided Tour & Wine Tasting & Optional Tower: $48
  • Pisa guided tour and Wine tasting with Leaning Tower ticket (option): $50
  • Winery Tour and Wine Tasting with Local Food Pairing: $75
  • From Pisa or Lucca: Half-Day Tuscany Chianti Wine Tasting: $90
  • Chianti Half-day Wine Tour in the Tuscan's Hills from Pisa: $97
  • Guided tour in San Miniato and wine tasting!: $99
  • Tuscan Wine Tour in Pisa by shuttle: $163
  • Pisa & Lucca with wine Tasting and Lunch from Livorno: $663


When comparing the travel costs between Graz and Pisa, we can see that Pisa is more expensive. However, the two cities are actually relatively comparable in price, as the difference is somewhat minimal. Generally, this means that you could travel with generally the same travel style and level of luxury in each place. Since both cities are in Europe, it's no surprise that their costs are relatively close, as many destinations here have somewhat similar travel prices overall.

If you're trying to decide if either of these two destinations are within your price range, also see Is Graz Expensive? and Is Pisa Expensive?.


Which is Bigger, Graz or Pisa?

Graz has a larger population, and is about 2 times larger than the population of Pisa. When comparing the sizes of Graz and Pisa, keep in mind that a larger population does not always imply the destination has more attractions or better activities. So, always research the type of place that you want to visit along with the activities and attractions that interest you.


When is the best time to visit Graz or Pisa?

Both destinations experience a temperate climate with four distinct seasons. And since both cities are in the northern hemisphere, summer is in July and winter is in January.

Should I visit Graz or Pisa in the Summer?

Both Pisa and Graz are popular destinations to visit in the summer with plenty of activities. The summer months attract visitors to Graz because of the family-friendly experiences. Also, the beaches and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Pisa this time of year.

Graz is around the same temperature as Pisa in the summer. The daily temperature in Graz averages around 23°C (73°F) in July, and Pisa fluctuates around 23°C (73°F).

It's quite sunny in Pisa. The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Graz. Graz usually receives less sunshine than Pisa during summer. Graz gets 236 hours of sunny skies, while Pisa receives 316 hours of full sun in the summer.

It's quite rainy in Graz. In July, Graz usually receives more rain than Pisa. Graz gets 126 mm (5 in) of rain, while Pisa receives 30 mm (1.2 in) of rain each month for the summer.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Graz 23°C (73°F) 
    Pisa 23°C (73°F)

Should I visit Graz or Pisa in the Autumn?

Both Pisa and Graz during the autumn are popular places to visit. The shopping scene and the natural beauty of the area are the main draw to Graz this time of year. Furthermore, many travelers come to Pisa for the shopping scene and the natural beauty of the area.

In the autumn, Graz is cooler than Pisa. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Graz in October average around 13°C (55°F), and Pisa averages at about 17°C (63°F).

In the autumn, Graz often gets less sunshine than Pisa. Graz gets 139 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Pisa receives 177 hours of full sun.

Pisa gets a good bit of rain this time of year. Graz usually gets less rain in October than Pisa. Graz gets 58 mm (2.3 in) of rain, while Pisa receives 150 mm (5.9 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Graz 13°C (55°F) 
    Pisa 17°C (63°F)

Should I visit Graz or Pisa in the Winter?

The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both Graz and Pisa. Many travelers come to Graz for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Furthermore, many visitors come to Pisa in the winter for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

Be prepared for some very cold days in Graz. In January, Graz is generally much colder than Pisa. Daily temperatures in Graz average around 1°C (34°F), and Pisa fluctuates around 7°C (45°F).

Graz usually receives less sunshine than Pisa during winter. Graz gets 95 hours of sunny skies, while Pisa receives 105 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, Graz usually receives less rain than Pisa. Graz gets 31 mm (1.2 in) of rain, while Pisa receives 70 mm (2.8 in) of rain each month for the winter.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Graz 1°C (34°F) 
    Pisa 7°C (45°F)

Should I visit Graz or Pisa in the Spring?

The spring brings many poeple to Graz as well as Pisa. Many visitors come to Graz in the spring for the natural beauty. Additionally, most visitors come to Pisa for the beaches and the natural beauty during these months.

Graz is around the same temperature as Pisa in the spring. The daily temperature in Graz averages around 13°C (55°F) in April, and Pisa fluctuates around 13°C (55°F).

In the spring, Graz often gets less sunshine than Pisa. Graz gets 158 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Pisa receives 192 hours of full sun.

It's quite rainy in Pisa. Graz usually gets less rain in April than Pisa. Graz gets 52 mm (2 in) of rain, while Pisa receives 110 mm (4.3 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Graz 13°C (55°F) 
    Pisa 13°C (55°F)

Typical Weather for Pisa and Graz

Graz Pisa
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 1°C (34°F) 31 mm (1.2 in) 7°C (45°F) 70 mm (2.8 in)
Feb 3°C (38°F) 36 mm (1.4 in) 8°C (46°F) 60 mm (2.4 in)
Mar 8°C (46°F) 49 mm (1.9 in) 11°C (52°F) 70 mm (2.8 in)
Apr 13°C (55°F) 52 mm (2 in) 13°C (55°F) 110 mm (4.3 in)
May 18°C (64°F) 84 mm (3.3 in) 16°C (61°F) 70 mm (2.8 in)
Jun 21°C (70°F) 119 mm (4.7 in) 20°C (68°F) 60 mm (2.4 in)
Jul 23°C (73°F) 126 mm (5 in) 23°C (73°F) 30 mm (1.2 in)
Aug 22°C (72°F) 115 mm (4.5 in) 23°C (73°F) 50 mm (2 in)
Sep 18°C (64°F) 76 mm (3 in) 21°C (70°F) 110 mm (4.3 in)
Oct 13°C (55°F) 58 mm (2.3 in) 17°C (63°F) 150 mm (5.9 in)
Nov 7°C (44°F) 59 mm (2.3 in) 11°C (52°F) 110 mm (4.3 in)
Dec 2°C (36°F) 33 mm (1.3 in) 8°C (46°F) 80 mm (3.1 in)